About Us

Founder & President

Helping others has always been a part of who I am. I’ve spent my life looking for ways to give back and make a meaningful difference—but in 2021, everything changed when I was introduced to a student sponsorship program in Uganda.

What began as a simple commitment quickly became something much deeper. With Lynda’s support, I stepped in to help grow a grassroots effort into what is now The Burch Tree Foundation. As Founder and President, I’m passionate about creating lasting change through education and opportunity.

What started with just a few students has become something truly powerful—and we’re just getting started. My dream is to continue growing this work and reach even more communities around the world.

Founding Partner & Student Sponsorship Lead

Our family first visited Ruhija, Uganda, in 2016 to see the Mountain Gorillas. While there, we were touched by a group of schoolchildren performing a traditional Gorilla dance for tourists—and we were instantly captivated.

Since then, we’ve partnered with Boneventure, the school’s director, to support the community through sustainable projects like gardens, chickens, goats, and Irish potatoes—providing both food and income for families. What began with three student sponsorships has grown into support for over 60 students attending secondary and technical schools and it grows every year.

Together, we’re working to break the cycle of poverty by helping educated youth return and uplift their community.

Founding Partner

I’m a retired real estate and mortgage professional who, alongside my wife Lynda, helped develop sustainable programs for the community of Ruhija in Uganda. As a dedicated Rotarian, I’ve also worked with my local Rotary Club to sponsor several children.

These days, I continue to support various projects behind the scenes, offering my experience and resources to help create lasting, positive change.

Director of Ruhija Community Orphans Needy Nursery and Primary School

I’m a 38-year-old educator from Ruhija Village, near Bwindi National Park in Kabale, Uganda. I have a deep passion for helping young children grow through education and learn to become self-reliant.

Since 2012, I’ve served as the Director of Ruhija Community Orphans and Needy School — a place created to give vulnerable children a safe space to learn, feel supported, and build a brighter future.